Tips for Juvenile Huntington's Disease Treatment

Huntington's disease is a genetic disease that can be inherited and it causes degeneration of brain tissues. The disease progressively gets worse and eventually leads to life-threatening complications such as pneumonia, infections and heart failure. Children born to parents with Huntington's disease have a 50 percent chance of getting the disease. The disease usually begins its progression in adulthood, but about 10 percent of those with the gene for Huntington's disease begin developing symptoms of the disease during childhood as early as age 2.

Management of Seizures

• Seizures and convulsions are common in children with Huntington's diease. Anti-covulsant drugs are used to control both seizures and convulsions. It is often difficult to find the right medication and the right dosage to treat the seizures. Several medication trials may be needed to find the best drug for a particular child. Most commonly, physicians initially try to use Dilantin or Tegretol to treat seizures. Also, anti-myoclonic medications may be prescribed to control severe myoclonic jerks.

Other Treatments

• Medications may be prescribed to children with Huntington's disease to help them sleep. Also, they may need medications to combat muscle rigidity. Children and their families may also receive counseling to help them deal with the disease. Treatments for children with Huntington's disease vary from child to child and must be personalized to best meet each child's needs.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is often recommended to keep muscles flexible and prevent muscle atrophy. One successful method for children with Huntington's disease is pool therapy. Working in a pool is especially helpful because the water's buoyancy makes performing exercises easier. Also, warmed pools help sooth and relax rigid muscles.